Trachyspermum ammi (L.) Sprague (= Carum copticum Benth & Hook. f.)

DeFilipps, Robert A. & Krupnick, Gary A., 2018, The medicinal plants of Myanmar, PhytoKeys 102, pp. 1-341 : 10

Trachyspermum ammi (L.) Sprague (= Carum copticum Benth & Hook. f.)

Names.

Myanmar: samone hpyu, gyee baitwine (Mon). English: bishop’s weed, lovage.

Range.

Worldwide in tropical and temperate climates. Cultivated in Myanmar.

Uses.

Seed: With heating properties similar to the seeds of A. graveolens , the seeds of C. copticum are used to promote appetite, digestion, and gall bladder and gastrointestinal functioning. The pulverized seeds, mixed with ground with pepper, rock salt, and hot water, are ingested as a treatment for stomachaches, dysentery, and sluggish digestion. Blended with yogurt, the seed powder is consumed to eradicate intestinal parasites. A mixture of the seeds and mother’s milk is given to children to alleviate vomiting and diarrhea. A thick paste made from ground seeds and water is applied two to three times daily to quell itching and to heal burns and rashes.

Notes.

The seeds of this species are considered antispasmodic, tonic, carminative, and are included in plasters to ease pain. Crushed with a variety of simples, they are prescribed as internal medicine for diseases of the stomach and liver, as well as for sore throats, coughs, and rheumatism ( Perry 1980).

The seeds have been found to be an important source of thymol, "a well-known antiseptic" ( Perry 1980).

Reference.

Agricultural Corporation (1980).